31 March 2017

How Not To Fall Down A Mountain!

Hiking, be it easy or hard trails, is for everyone as long as they’ve prepared themselves for the trek, brought the proper gear and checked out how long it’s going to take to reach the summit. Some hikes in America can be done in a day, which is perfect for when you’re due back in the office Monday morning after a long weekend!

Kings Canyon National Park, California

Normally, it’s only after a long, arduous all day hike or gruelling overnight stay that you reach the summit in some national parks. However, Kings Canyon is a little different, yes it’s got paths and trails that only experienced hikers should attempt, but there’s also the shorter trek to Lookout Peak. The peak not only gives you panoramic views out over the whole eastern California region but also let you witness the gigantic U-shaped chasm that was carved by a massive glacier millions of years ago. You’ll also have the rare chance to trek through the breathtaking

Sequoia National Forest, and see the giants that visitsequoia.com describe as being some of the tallest, oldest trees on earth!

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Believe it or not, the scenery here is even more beautiful than the lyrics of ‘Country Roads’ might suggest. Don’t forget to look out for Stony Man, so named thanks to its high boulders and gigantic rock cliffs, it’s not the highest peak, but it still ranks at 4,011 feet above sea level. While some hikers prefer higher Hawksbill even the locals think that Stony Man offers better views. Including some gorgeous sights over the endless Appalachian Mountains, that stretch towards the horizon in a seemingly never-ending gray/green line! The hike to Stony Man is suitable for all levels of hiker and is a mere 2.5 miles away from the entrance of the Shenandoah National Park itself. However, you may be looking for something with a lot more oomph! Feel like you’re ready to take on a Grand Canyon hike? Now’s the time to visit sedonaredrocktreks.com as they’ll be able to create you a bespoke package, as well as give you an extra day’s grace in case of bad weather that keeps you from trekking.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

It’s best to only attempt this particular hike in summer as the rest of the year the trail is often hidden between a heavy blanket of thick, impassable snow. However, when the temperatures do warm up in July, the area is transformed into a wild meadow, subalpine flowers dance merrily in the breeze and tourists and locals alike come to experience the joys of Avalanche Peak! Warning, if you’re looking to complete your hike solo or don’t wish to be disturbed by endless chattering queues at viewpoints get up early. Here, the path takes you through 2.5 miles of subalpine forest, lush conifer trees and acres of firs and spruce. Why not check out the route at http://www.summitpost.org to see when you’ll be able to take a break at the beautiful Yellowstone Lake as well as having the chance to spot elk or deer.